The impact of technological innovation and human invention is examined. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach, the book's contributors use archaeological, architectural, artistic, historical, economic, and pictorial evidence, along with the results of new research, to present an illuminating and fascinating account of glassmaking in Ireland that is accessible to both the academic and general reader alike.

Among the many topics covered are: the origins of Waterford glass and its re-emergence in the 20th century, the invention of lead crystal glass, the origins of studio and contemporary glass in Ireland, and how advanced Irish glass making was compared to English glassmaking of the period.